Hinsdale D86 Officials Push For Equal Access To Courses

HINSDALE, IL – Three members of the Hinsdale High School District 86 board pushed Thursday to continue the work on ensuring equal opportunities at the two campuses. It has been stalled in recent months.

For years, the wealthier and larger Hinsdale Central has offered a greater course selection than Hinsdale South.

At a board meeting Thursday, members Asma Akhras, Terri Walker and Abed Rahman spoke about the need for alignment of courses between the two schools.

In October, the board majority rejected teacher-recommended changes to the social studies curriculum. Social studies was another step in the long process of aligning courses.

Akhras and Rahman are the only ones on the seven-member board who live in the South zone.

Akhras said she would work this year to make sure all students have opportunities to access courses in the district, especially at Hinsdale South. In her role as chairwoman of the Academic Committee, she said she would make curriculum alignment between the two schools a goal.

Member Abed Rahman said the board should decide on the social studies curriculum and course alignment.

"Having more choices for the South school would be more appropriate," Rahman said.

Member Terri Walker said she wanted to echo Rahman's comments. And for the third month in a row, Walker called for the board to move forward on the social studies curriculum.

"We need as a board to resolve this issue," she said.

She noted the social studies matter would come before the Academic Committee next week.

During public comments, Burr Ridge resident Janelle Goins said the current social studies curriculum fails to meet state standards. She urged the board to act.

She also said it was important that students have equal access to course opportunities.

"I know the board will always be weighted with more members from Central's boundaries due to the size difference of the two schools," Goins said. "However, I trust that when elected as a board member, you desire to equally represent and consider what is best for students at both schools."